Classic shrimp and grits recipe with a step-by-step guide

shrimp and grits

 Certainly! Here's a classic shrimp and grits recipe with a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (optional)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 
  
  
• shrimp and grits

Instructions:

Prepare the Grits:

1. Boil Water and Milk:

• In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil.

3. Add Grits:

   • Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer. Stir frequently to avoid lumps.

4. Season and Cook:

   • Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the grits are thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Butter and Cheese:

   • Stir in butter and grated cheddar cheese (if using) until melted. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Keep Warm:

   • Keep the grits warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Shrimp:

6. Season Shrimp:

   • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

7. Sauté Shrimp:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

9. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

10. Add Tomatoes:

    • Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to soften.

11. Deglaze with Broth:

    • Pour in chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Allow the broth to simmer for a few minutes.

12. Combine Shrimp and Finish:

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir in fresh lemon juice and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.

14. Serve:

    • Spoon the creamy grits onto plates or bowls, top with the shrimp and tomato mixture. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious shrimp and grits! Adjust the seasoning and spice levels according to your taste preferences.